Ever wanted to take a group photo and *you’re* the photographer? Don’t have an Apple Watch to help you snap it hands-free? No worries. You can still control your iPhone camera remotely – and you don’t need a fancy smartwatch to do it!
There are a few clever tricks that let you snap photos or start videos remotely. Let’s walk through the easiest ways.
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Option 1: Use Your Voice (with Siri)
You can *ask Siri* to help take photos! While Siri won’t press the shutter for you, she’s great for launching the camera app. Here’s how you do it:
- Say “Hey Siri, open Camera.”
- Once the app opens, choose your desired mode — photo, video, portrait.
- Use a timer to give yourself enough time to pose!
Simple, right? But what if you want something more hands-off?
Option 2: Use Earphones with Volume Buttons
Did you know your wired earphones can act like a remote?
- Plug in your headset (yes, even Lightning ones work!).
- Open the iPhone’s Camera app.
- Click the volume button on the headset to take a photo!
This trick turns your headphone cable into a camera trigger. Sneaky and cool!
If you have Bluetooth earbuds like AirPods, this method won’t work exactly the same. But don’t worry, we’ve got more options.
Option 3: Use a Bluetooth Remote Shutter
This is where things get fun. For less than 20 bucks, you can buy a small Bluetooth camera remote that works perfectly with iPhones.
Here’s how to use it:
- Buy a small Bluetooth shutter remote (they’re super cheap online).
- Pair it with your iPhone via Bluetooth.
- Open the Camera app.
- Click the remote’s button to take a picture or start recording.
You don’t even need to touch your phone. Just hide the remote in your hand and click!
This little gadget is amazing for selfies, family shots, and tripod work. Total game changer.
Option 4: Use Another iPhone or iPad
Have an extra iPhone or iPad lying around? You can use the Apple Home app and a little trick with automation to make a camera system. Here’s how:
- Install the Home app on both devices.
- Set up one device as a remote trigger (you’ll need a HomeKit-enabled camera setup — this can be a bit advanced).
- Use it to start capturing remotely from your main iPhone!
This one’s for tech lovers, and maybe a little overkill for just selfies — but hey, it can be fun!
Option 5: Use the Camera Timer
This might sound obvious, but the timer is super powerful when you mix it with clever phone placement.
- Open the Camera app.
- Tap the timer icon (look for the little clock).
- Choose 3 or 10 seconds.
- Press the shutter, run into place, pose!
It’s like a built-in photo booth. Pair with a tripod or prop your iPhone against anything stable.
Bonus Tip: Use Facial Expressions (Seriously!)
Some third-party camera apps, like Camera+ or SelfieX, detect smiles or blinks to trigger photos. Cool, huh?
These apps can take a picture every time you make a certain face — great for spontaneous selfies without lifting a finger.
Which One Should You Use?
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Best Budget: Use the timer or earphones.
- Best All-Around: Buy a Bluetooth remote.
- Most Fun: Try a smile-detecting app.
Whether you want to stop running to your phone between takes, or you just want cooler selfies, these tricks make your iPhone smarter.
Now go out there, set up your shot, and be your own photographer — no Apple Watch required!
